EMS Adds Life-Saving Device For Cardiac Arrest Sufferers

Louisville Metro EMS will begin using a new life-saving device designed to improve CPR effectiveness for patients in cardiac arrest.

“Our Emergency Medical Service is on the cutting edge of emergency cardiac care, and the ResQPOD continues our commitment to providing the highest quality lifesaving response when our residents are at their most vulnerable,” said Mayor Jerry Abramson.

Abramson included $30,000 in his budget plan to purchase 300 of the devices, which will be deployed to each paramedic and EMT for use in each of the city’s ambulances and fly cars.

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The ResQPOD is a bulb-shaped plastic tool that a paramedic or EMT attaches to a face-mask or other airway device when performing CPR. The device works by preventing air from entering the chest during the relaxation phase of the chest compression cycle. This enhances blood flow to the heart and to maintain critical brain function once the heart has stopped beating effectively.

“The ResQPOD is a truly promising tool that complements our comprehensive toolkit for cardiac arrest survival,” said Dr. Neal Richmond, director of Louisville Metro EMS. “There have been cases where patients show signs of actual awakening while their resuscitation with the ResQPOD is in progress. The device is a critical part of our work in strengthening each link in the chain-of-survival for cardiac arrest.”

The ResQPOD is the latest addition in a series of technology and training improvements making LMEMS one of the nation’s best emergency medical services. Last year, Abramson announced the addition of ePCRs, handheld computers that wirelessly transmit patient information – including real-time EKG reports – to hospital emergency rooms. Paramedics and EMTS are rigorously trained in the latest cardiac best-practices, including improved application of CPR and defibrillation as well as improved compression and ventilation techniques.

The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that nationwide, less than 4 percent of patients in cardiac arrest will survive and walk out of a hospital. AHA guidelines indicate that improving and maintaining blood flow to the brain and vital organs during a cardiac arrest is key to survival.

The AHA has rated the ResQPOD as one of the most highly recommended devices for emergency personnel for increasing circulation during CPR and improving resuscitation rates.